Bladder sensitivity is so common that it's likely we all know someone who's dealing with it.

Did you know that one in three women over the age of 18 suffer from bladder sensitivity? Despite this, not many women find it easy to talk about having the condition. Together, Wellbeing of Women and Always are working to improve the quality of life of women coping with bladder sensitivity.

We quizzed Fiona Leishman, CEO of Wellbeing of Women, on this special partnership:

How is Wellbeing of Women working with Always Discreet?

Wellbeing of Women and Always Discreet are working in partnership to improve the lives of women. At Wellbeing of Women we share New Always Discreet's desire to improve the lives of women suffering from Urinary Incontinence, through funding research into the condition, raising awareness of the issue, and breaking taboos around the subject. We are delighted to be working together for maximum impact!

Sensitive bladder problems can be extremely debilitating and many women suffer in silence. More awareness and research is needed so women can be freed from these problems. We are currently funding research into this often neglected area of women's health and are committed, with the support of new Always Discreet, to continue this vital research to further help women living with sensitive bladder and other bladder conditions.

What should a woman do if she starts developing signs of sensitive bladder?

The most important thing is to not suffer in silence. As a starting point, you should try and speak to your GP about the condition who will help you understand what type of condition you have and will then help you to manage and even reduce the symptoms.

What advice can you give to someone who is feeling nervous or embarrassed to discuss her symptoms with a GP or confide in a friend?

Talking about bladder sensitivity can be a difficult conversation to start, but whether it's with your friend, partner or a GP, it can be a really important first step in improving your quality of life. There is also some helpful information on the Wellbeing of Women website about the symptoms, causes and treatment of Urinary Incontinence and other bladder problems.

Why is it important for women to share their stories of sensitive bladder with one another?

Sensitive bladder is a very common condition affecting one in three women in the UK, but no one ever talks about it meaning millions of women are suffering in silence. By sharing stories and raising awareness of the condition women can start breaking these taboos and help to reassure others that they are not alone. Have a look at some of the amazing In Her Shoes case studies; such as Elaine Miller, who speaks about her experiences of living with sensitive bladder, or Emma Ibbetson, who has suffered from Adult Incontinence (AI) for two and a half years. These women are living proof that sensitive bladder should never stop you from living life to the full.

What can we do to support our friends and loved ones who are experiencing sensitive bladder?

It's really important to reassure anyone with AI that they are not alone, and to explain how common the condition is –one in three women in the UK suffer from the condition. Take a look at Dr Sarah Jarvis' top tips for helping to manage sensitive bladder and try recommending these to your friend. It is also important to ensure that they visit their GP if they haven't already.

Is sensitive bladder just a natural part of ageing that women should put up with?

Absolutely not. It is not by any means a 'natural' part of ageing, incontinence can affect women of all ages but is commonly associated with ageing. Sensitive bladder has a huge impact on the quality of the lives of women and this is not something we should accept. In fact there are lots of things women can do to ensure AI doesn't stop them doing the things they love – such as socialising, exercising, even enjoying intimacy with their partner.

The Wellbeing of Women website has health pages explaining various exercises, appropriate lifestyle changes and medical treatments that may help women with bladder conditions. Additionally, Always Discreet for sensitive bladder is a new line of products from Always, designed to help women live life to the full.

How does wearing products like Always Discreet for sensitive bladder improve the quality of life for someone experiencing this condition?

Always Discreet for sensitive bladder is a new line of products that includes Liners, Pads and Pants specially designed to help meet your bladder control needs, from those small little leaks through to heavier urine losses. Always Discreet for sensitive bladder are up to 40% thinner* than the leading brand, yet offer twice as much absorbency than you may need.** The pants offer up to 100% comfort and protection. Always Discreet for sensitive bladder also absorbs leaks and odours in seconds and has a unique Advance Core Technology to help lock away wetness for hours. Its exclusive odourLock™ technology neutralizes odours instantly and continuously. With Always Discreet for sensitive bladder, you can feel confident that you are protected and secure.

>Go to alwaysdiscreet.co.uk to request your free Always Discreet for Sensitive Bladder sample. You can find out more at www.wellbeingofwomen.org.uk, where there is also helpful information about the symptoms, causes and treatment of bladder sensitivity.

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*Compares to the leading brand (percentage varies across line-up). **Based on average consumer loading.

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